Deepavali Festival

About Deepavali Festival

The Diwali day attire usually consists of the Jhabba (kurta) and dhotis for the men, while the women dress in Saris. However in the urban cities of Gujarat, most people do not wear the traditional attire instead choosing to opt for western clothes or the fancier Indian variety. It is considered auspicious to visit the temple on this day. The day is spent preparing food and sweets. Shops are open, but business comes to a halt on Dhanteras, two days before Diwali, and doesn’t resume until Labh Pancham, the fifth day of the New Year. For traders and businessmen, this is the time for a vacation. Diwali evening is celebrated by lighting up streets and markets, and bursting crackers.

A major Indian festival that is of immense significance in Hinduism, Sikhism and Jainism, Deepavali or Diwali is popularly hailed as the “Festival of Lights” and celebrated with great gusto and aplomb all over India. The legendary epic Ramayana has it that after defeating Ravana and rescuing Sita, Lord Rama returned triumphant to his capital Ayodhya where he was crowned. To commemorate the joyous occasion, people decorated their houses with lamps. Since then, this day is celebrated as Deepavali The Festival of Lights.

History of Deepavali

In Sikh perspective, Diwali is celebrated as the return of the sixth Guru, Guru Hargobind Ji from the captivity of the city, Gwalior. To commemorate his undying love for Sikhism, the towns people lit the way to the Golden Temple in his honour.
In Gujarat, the festival honours Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth; and in Bengal, it is associated with the goddess Kali.For Farmers Diwali is a festival marking the end of one Harvest and the beginning of another and is a festival heralding the beginning of a New Year.

Importance of Deepavali festival

As with other Indian festivals, Divali signifies many different things to people across the country. In north India, Deepavali Festival celebrates Rama’s homecoming, that is his return to Ayodhya after the defeat of Ravana and his coronation as king; in Gujarat, the festival honors Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth; and in Bengal, it is associated with the goddess Kali. Everywhere, it signifies the renewal of life, and accordingly it is common to wear new clothes on the day of the festival; similarly, it heralds the approach of winter and the beginning of the sowing season.

Method of Celebration

Hangings:
A popular Diwali decorative item is the hangings adorning the idols of Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi. You can find different colored and designed hangings in the market nowadays. These hangings can be used for adorning the entrance of the homes or the entrance point of the small temples in your home or even for decorating the walls.

Rangolis:
Rangolis are the art patterns made on the entrance floor of the homes in order to welcome Goddess Lakshmi. These patterns basically depict nature, flowers with the usage of different colors. The drawing of rangolis on the entrance point of the homes is considered to be an auspicious tradition mainly if the rangolis are drawn in the courtyard of the homes where all the family members gather.

Lights and Lamps:
Lights and lamps are another favorite Diwali decorative items used by many people. These lights and lamps also come in different beautiful shapes and sizes. They create a mesmerizing atmosphere with their shimmering glow at the time of Diwali.

Culture of festivities

Festivals in Gujarat are celebrated with great gusto and religious sentiment. They promote unity and feeling of brotherhood. Festivals of Gujarat are extremely colorful and elaborate. The most colorful and popular festival is Navratri celebrated throughout nine nights in the month of October. People of all age groups assemble in temple compounds and sing and dance till the wee hours in he morning. The festival ends with Dusshera. Other festivals celebrated in Gujarat are Diwali, Holi, Janmastami and Raksha Bandhan. Festivals like International Kite Festival, Modhera Dance Festival and Saptak Music Festival are unique to Gujarat.

Climate & weather

The land relief in Gujarat is low in most parts of the state, resulting in a great diversity in the climate of Gujarat India. Gujarat experiences mild, pleasant and dry winters, with average daytime temperatures ranging around 83 °F(29 °C) and night temperatures around 53 °F(12 °C). The summers are very hot and dry, with day temperatures rising up to around 105 °F(41 °C) and night temperatures dropping to 85 °F(29 °C).

How to reach Deepavali Festival

• Nearest Railway Station:

• Nearest Airport:

• Road Transport:

Helpline & emergency contacts

• Police Station:

• Nearest Hospital:

• Society/Community Phone Number:

Best time to visit Deepavali Festival

October-November.

Timings & opening hours

October-November. Celebrations last 3-5 days.

Entry fee & tickets

No entry fee.

Duration needed

Celebrations last several days.

Location info

Deepavali (Diwali) is celebrated across Gujarat with major celebrations in Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Surat, and Rajkot..

Safety tips

Be careful with firecrackers. Protect pets from loud noises. Traffic can be very heavy in the evenings.

Things to carry

Comfortable clothing.

Nearby visiting places

All cities and towns celebrate Diwali.

Nearest airport, railway & bus

Nearest airport and railway station.

Mobile network coverage

Airtel, Jio, and Vi all provide good coverage across Gujarat’s major cities and tourist areas. 4G is generally reliable in Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Surat, and along major highways. Coverage may be weaker in remote areas of Kutch and interior Saurashtra. Most hotels and cafes in tourist areas offer free Wi-Fi.

Food & restaurants nearby

Food options are available in the nearest town. Traditional Gujarati thali restaurants and local eateries offer a range of vegetarian dishes.

Hotels & accommodation nearby

Accommodation is available in the nearest town or city. Options range from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels. Booking ahead during major festivals (Navratri, Kutch Festival) is recommended.

Things to do at Deepavali Festival

Light diyas (lamps), create rangoli, enjoy festive foods, watch fireworks displays, and visit illuminated temples.

Things to visit & highlights

Illuminated homes, temples, markets, and community fireworks displays.

Nearest petrol pump

Petrol pump available in the nearest town.

Frequently asked questions

What is Deepavali Festival? A festival celebrated in Gujarat.

When is it celebrated? Check the annual calendar.

How should I prepare? Book accommodation in advance during festival periods.

Quick facts

• Type: festivals
• Location: Gujarat, India
• Ideal for: History enthusiasts, cultural travelers, and photographers
• Best time to visit: October to March (pleasant winter season)
• Photography: Allowed at most areas; some sites may have restrictions inside sanctums

Plan your visit to Deepavali Festival with these essential quick facts for a smooth and enjoyable trip to Gujarat.

Map & location view

Deepavali Festival is located in the vibrant state of Gujarat, India. The destination is accessible by road and is well-connected to major cities and towns in the region, making it a convenient addition to any Gujarat travel itinerary.

How to reach

• By Air: The nearest airport is connected to major Indian cities including Mumbai, Delhi, Ahmedabad, and Vadodara with regular domestic flights.
• By Rail: The nearest railway station is connected to the Indian railway network with regular trains from major cities across India.
• By Road: State transport buses, private taxis, and self-drive options are available from nearby cities. Gujarat has a well-maintained network of state highways and national highways.

Use GPS navigation or local maps to find the exact location of this destination in Gujarat. The Gujarat Tourism website provides additional travel resources for visitors.